Step 4 - Participate with Other Christians

Have you ever noticed that the coals of a charcoal fire glow brighter when they're touching each other. They draw warmth from each other. Those coals can teach us an important lesson about Christian fellowship: We glow the brightest when we fellowship with other Christians.
Why is Christian fellowship so important? First, we find encouragement in fellowship with other believers. Christian fellowship provides an atmosphere where we can share our joys and sorrows. That is what God's Holy Word says: "Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2).
Second, we receive enthusiasm from fellowship with other Christians. As we share in the lives of other believers, we are energized to live out our faith. The Bible puts it this way: "Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works" (Hebrews 10:24).
Finally, we receive empowerment from Christian fellowship because we find Christ in the midst of other Christians (Matthew 18:20). The first Christians knew they needed to be empowered by the living Lord Jesus. They found that power together as "they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers" (Acts 2:42).
Will you learn the lesson of the charcoal? Make it your priority and prayer to find other believers with whom you can enjoy all the blessings and benefits of Christian fellowship. It will increase your joy and stimulate your growth!

A Word from God

By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.--John 13:35
Find a Sunday school class or a Bible Study made up of people who share your age, background, or interests. Get involved and grow together.

How to Participate in Christian Fellowship

• Find a Bible Fellowship class to become involved in.
• Respond to the initiative others make to include you in their lives.
• Introduce yourself to other believers.
• Encourage others through personal contacts and acts of kindness.
• Notice others, especially new believers, who need to experience Christian fellowship.
• Determine ways you can get involved in the lives of others.
• Spend time praying for other believers by name.

Digging Deeper

The following verses will help you understand Christian fellowship even better: Acts 1:14; Colossians 3:12-16; I Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13, 10:25; I John 1:7.

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